What does lingering mean?
Lingering describes something that continues to exist, particularly when its disappearance is slow or its presence remains distracting. It is especially common in relation to doubts, fears, smells, memories, impressions, and effects, as in “a lingering suspicion” or “a lingering taste.” As a verb, it means to remain or continue, often for longer than expected: negotiations may linger, a storm may linger, or a conversation may linger after it should have ended. The word often carries a slightly negative implication because something that lingers is usually not wanted to remain. Nevertheless, it can also be used more neutrally for lasting human or natural processes. Lingering is a useful word because it captures the idea of persistence without necessarily suggesting the strength or permanence implied by “enduring,” nor the simple continuation described by “continuing.”
Continuing to exist, especially as a smell, feeling, doubt, or effect that fades slowly or remains noticeable.
"The paint had a strong, lingering odour."
Often used where continued presence is unpleasant, inconvenient, or psychologically persistent.
To remain or continue to exist, especially for longer than expected or desired.
"The discussion lingered well beyond the scheduled meeting."
Can be neutral, but frequently suggests that the continuation is unwanted or unusually prolonged.
A lingering doubt is the kind that stays long after the evidence has answered it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of lingering
The word comes from Middle English “lenger,” meaning “to remain” or “stay longer,” with the present-participle ending “-ing” added in the usual English way. “Lingering” developed both as a verb and as an adjective describing an effect or condition that continues.
Related word forms
How lingering is actually used
The adjective commonly describes something that fades slowly or remains difficult to shake off, such as a doubt, fear, smell, or effect. The verb is formally neutral, though it can suggest an unwanted or inconvenient continuation.